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- Backstage friction on Dancing With the Stars: what was reported
- How the PenaVegas say the split changed their rehearsal routine
- Dance styles, teaching approaches and who learned faster
- Season 21 outcomes and subsequent career moves
- Recent Season 35 context and current standings
- Statements, follow-ups and public reaction
Former contestants Alexa and Carlos PenaVega have opened up about tense backstage moments from Dancing With the Stars Season 21. Their recent podcast episode paints a picture of rehearsals marked by distance and awkward scheduling between two high-profile pros. The revelations have reignited interest in the season’s behind-the-scenes conflicts.
Backstage friction on Dancing With the Stars: what was reported
Alexa described a divide between pros Witney Carson and Mark Ballas that affected rehearsal logistics. According to the couple, the two pros were rarely in the same space. They even refused to be in the same room together, Alexa said on the LexLos podcast.
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The claim suggests the feud forced contestants to adjust plans and practice around the tension. Production and publicists have not issued detailed responses to the account.
How the PenaVegas say the split changed their rehearsal routine
Alexa and Carlos explained that they had expected a shared rehearsal environment. Instead, they found themselves working in separate spaces to avoid contact between the pros.
- Both teammates aimed to train as a pair whenever possible.
- Scheduling became more complicated because of the alleged rift.
- Contestant pairs had to “dance around” the strained dynamic, Alexa said.
The alteration disrupted their original plan to move through the season as one united team.
Dance styles, teaching approaches and who learned faster
Carlos praised Witney’s work ethic and creativity. He said he and Witney put in intense hours and enjoyed the process despite the pressure.
Alexa offered a different perspective about learning pace. She said Mark was an efficient teacher for her, but Carlos picked up choreography quickly when working with Mark.
- Carlos reportedly absorbed steps almost immediately.
- Alexa said she needed more repetition to retain routines.
- Both contestants acknowledged the pros’ talent and unique methods.
Season 21 outcomes and subsequent career moves
The PenaVegas finished the season in different placements. Alexa and Ballas left mid-competition, while Carlos and Carson advanced to the finale and finished fourth. Bindi Irwin and Derek Hough won the mirrorball that year.
Since that season, both Carson and Ballas have remained active on the show. Carson later won a season with Robert Irwin and continued returning as a pro. Ballas has also come back for later seasons.
Recent Season 35 context and current standings
In a more recent season, Carson was eliminated during a themed night alongside partner Guillermo Rodriguez. Ballas continued in the competition with Maura Higgins at the time of reporting.
The ongoing appearances show both pros remain prominent on DWTS despite past reports about friction.
Statements, follow-ups and public reaction
Page Six and other outlets have tried to contact those named for comment. As of the most recent update, representatives for the pros and the show had not released detailed rebuttals.
Fans and former contestants often share behind-the-scenes memories. These new remarks from Alexa and Carlos add to a broader narrative about how much off-camera dynamics can shape a season’s atmosphere.
Quick timeline of relevant events
- Season 21: Alexa and Carlos compete as the first married pair on DWTS.
- Post-season: Alexa and Carlos discuss behind-the-scenes tension on their podcast.
- Later seasons: Both pros return to DWTS in subsequent years.
